There's a lot happening during the holiday season. It's easy to be overwhelmed this time of the year. That's why I think I was drawn to David's prayer today.
Notice what he does before he begins to pray. The text says he went and sat in the Lord's presence. Before he says or asks anything, he slows down just enough to be present. And isn't presence what we celebrate at Christmas?
Then David says, "Who am I, Lord God, and what significance is my family, that you have brought me this far?" Now, that may sound strange or a bit like false humility. He's King David, after all. That's who you are! But that's just a reminder that no matter what our accomplishments are or what we've made of our lives, we are still creatures standing before God in need of grace.
So, let's use his question to reflect on our lives. When we slow down enough to look back, we can see how much of our story is undeserved goodness. Doors that opened. Strength that showed up on time. People who carried us when we couldn't carry ourselves. And David's prayer didn't talk about what he had done. Instead, he points to God. God's faithfulness, generosity, and unmatched grace. 
That's enough for us to use to stop and pray today. Here's a prayer I wrote for us that follows David's:
God, I’m sitting here, letting your kindness catch up with me. Who am I that you’ve carried me this far, through what I didn’t plan, didn’t deserve, and couldn’t control? Thank you for being faithful when I was distracted, patient when I was unsure, and present even when I didn’t notice. I receive your goodness today with open hands. Amen.
Take a moment to write your own prayer. Start with "Who am I that you..." and let your gratitude finish the rest.
Stay blessed...john | 
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